antacid

antacid,

any one of several basic substances that counteract stomach acidity (see stomachstomach,saclike dilation in the gastrointestinal tract between the esophagus and the intestines, forming an organ of digestion. The stomach is present in virtually all vertebrate animals and in many invertebrates......Click the link for more information.). Antacids are used by physicians to treat hyperchlorhydria, i.e., the excessive production of hydrochloric acid by the parietal cells lining the stomach. Commonly used antacid preparations, most sold without prescription, contain sodium bicarbonate, magnesium hydroxide, or aluminum hydroxide. Some preparations contain substances such as magnesium trisilicate that reduce the formation of gas.

In its prescription form Tagamet was the most highly prescribed antacid with more than 237 million prescriptions filled out year, followed by Zantac with more than 192 million scripts, Pepcid with 36 million and Axid with about 20 million, according to SmithKline Beecham.

All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.